Post Hurricane Irene Update #4

Post Hurricane Irene Advisory #3 (8/30/11 5 PM)

Access to the northern beaches of the Outer Banks is now permitted with all roadblocks now removed.

Unfortunately some of our properties did sustain damage and some guest arrivals could not be accommodated for the remainder of this week while repairs are being made to some properties.

All arriving Outer Banks Blue guests have been contacted to advise of your particular property's situation.

Arriving guests are asked to please be patient as pool and spa vendors that are hired directly by the homeowner are working hard on preparing the pools and spas after the storm. Many guests have arrived to their rental homes to find pools not clean, but please be aware these folks are working as quickly and as hard as they can to get those amenities ready for your use.

We are eager to have our visitors back on the Outer Banks, and we welcome you. We do ask you to remember however that this area has been through a difficult time this week with the hurricane evacuation, the effects of the storm, and the preparation of these properties for your return. Our folks are working very hard as are our maintenance teams, outside repairmen, and our homeowners to ensure that your property is available to use this week. We will take good care of you.

While we want you to enjoy your stay we also ask you to remember that our neighbors and friends to our south on Hatteras Island have fared far worse that we have. The main road that services Hatteras Island has been severed in several places. There is no electricity on the island, no phone service (cell or othewise) and there is no estimate of when things will be back to normal. Many of the residents there have suffered severe damage to their homes, and they don't have the resources to get things fixed at this time, much less the ability to refrigerate food or cook a hot meal.

As you come to the Outer Banks to enjoy your vacation Outer Banks Blue asks that you keep these folks in mind and if you have any leftover non-perishible items at the end of your stay please donate them to our local food pantry or drop them by our office here in Kitty Hawk so we can get these items to our friends in Hatteras. Please just don't bring us anything that is perishible or that has been opened. Items that are specifically requested include canned goods, diapers, bottled water, and paper products. Efforts are being organized through our local association of REALTORS to help these folks and your considering is appreciated.

All the best from the beach